Louth Fire service is ‘A1’ councillors told

PUBLIC concerns about staffing issues at Dundalk Fire Station were being raised, according to Cllr. Conor Keelan.

He said that some concerns had been raised about the number of firefighters who are based in Dundalk.

Staffing issues at Dundalk fore station had been raised in the local media recently, when reported delays were experienced by a member of the public, after a call was made alerting the fire service to a tumble dryer fire in an outdoor shed.

Director of Service, Joe McGuinness said an agreement was in place several years ago regarding the operation of fire services across Louth.

He said that a recent analysis of response times had shown Louth had among the best in the country, adding: ‘Our service is A1’.

He admitted that there were some recruitment issues with retained firefighters, which was the case in both Dundalk and Drogheda.

Mr.McGuinness added that the system the fire service has in place in Louth can ultimately mean there are less call outs for retained firefighters to attend.

But he pointed out that a recent recruitment campaign had led to a large number of responses, which was encouraging.

He added that as a result of the campaign there are 11 retained staff who are now due to start with the Fire Service in January

Chief Fire Officer, Eamon Woulfe said that a recent workshop at Dundalk Fire Station had resulted in a ‘very good score’.

‘ There were practically no issues found at this,’ added Mr.Woulfe.